Lecture 2: What is Our Purpose?

Aristotle argued that we can figure out what makes a thing good by asking what it's purpose is and then focusing in on each of the things it needs to fulfill this purpose. In today's lecture, Meghan will talk about this view, and how it connects up with our main question.

What is Character?

Philosophers have been arguing about the importance of virtue and character for thousands of years. And today, psychologists are adding their voices to the mix.

In the twentieth century, questions about virtue abound. What are the virtues? How do we acquire them? How are they related to habits? And can they really predict our behavior in reliable ways?

Nowadays, most experts tend to think of character as a collection of personal traits like generosity, honesty, and perseverance. While debates over how much we control our character are ongoing, most scholars now agree that there are character traits, some of them are virtuous and some of them are not, and that we have at least some control. In other words: that we are responsible, at least to some extent, for the people we become.

In the application video for today's class, Meghan will talk a bit about some extreme displays of virtue. Then you'll have a chance to reflect on how such virtue are actually formed through action and habits.

Activity: Acquiring Virtues

Aristotle knew that we only acquire virtues with sustained, focused effort. He also gave us the insight that virtue builds on habit, and that habits require repeatedly performing actions with the right sort of intention. In this activity, you'll be encouraged to think about these connections, and how they can play out in your life. You can use a worksheet that will guide you through the process (full color or printer-friendly).